We went from smelly to the super cute as our next visit was to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre which opened to the public in 2014, having previously operated as a private facility. The Conservation Centre's mission is to rescue these delightful creatures from the effects of deforestation, commercial hunting and the pet trade. The stories of some of the rescued bears will bring tears to your eyes. It is common for cubs to be kept illegally in cramped, filthy cages with no access to outdoor areas.

Malayan sun bears (The alternative name 'honey bear' or 'beruang madu' in Malay and Indonesian) are the smallest bears in the world and are only found in Southeast Asia. They grow to approximately 150 cm in height. They are the second rarest bear species, after the giant panda. Their name comes from the pale horseshoe shape on their chests, which is said to resemble the setting or rising sun. No two markings are the same and are like a fingerprint in humans.

Sun Bear Facts:

• Sun bears feed on bees, beehives, honey, termites, ants, beetle larvae, figs and other fruits.
• These bears can extend their tongues up to 25 cm to extract honey from beehives and insects.
• They are expert climbers and make nests in trees
• Commercial hunting and poaching remain the biggest threat to these bears.
• They are solitary animals, except for females and their young.
• They are classified as "vulnerable"
• The killing of these bears is prohibited under national laws that support wildlife protection. However, these laws are rarely enforced.

Our last stop for the day was the Rainforest Discovery Centre, an educational facility run by the Sabah Forestry Department. There is a 347 metre long elevated steel walkway that allows visitors to view life from above the canopy. The steel walkway and three towers enable visitors to the centre to view over 250 species of colourful birds from 100 feet above the ground. Be on the lookout for the extremely rare Bornean bristleheads, trogons, pittas, brahminy kites and kingfishers from the observation towers. Visitors are also able to see the pitcher plants, orchids and an extensive collection of flora all neatly labelled with educational signs. Spend some time in the Exhibition Hall to gain an appreciation for the different forest types, rainforest ecology and the unique animals and plants that can be seen in this area.